Where to Stay in Saint Martin: 7 Best Areas & Hotels

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Planning a trip to Saint Martin? You’re in the right place!

This island is a true gem of the Caribbean, with its rare mix of French elegance and Dutch vibrance. A lot of visitors don’t realize just how diverse Saint Martin is, and so where you stay really does make a big difference to the type of experience you have here. 

We’ve stayed here several times, so whether you’re looking for buzzing nightlife, quiet beaches, or colonial charm, we’re here to help you find your perfect base. And to further simplify your search, we’ve also included our top hotel picks in each area for every budget. Let’s get into it! 

Where to Stay in Saint Martin Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Saint Martin

Not sure where to stay in Saint Martin? Don’t worry, we’ve been there! The first time we visited this beautiful island, we were totally overwhelmed when trying to decide where to stay. But several visits later, we’ve broken down the best areas for you to make it easy to decide. 

The good news is that Saint Martin is pretty compact and easy to explore, so you’ll never feel stuck in one spot. However, choosing an area you love will make your trip ten times better! The island is split between the French and Dutch sides, and they feel very different. The French side is officially called Saint Martin, while the Dutch side is Sint Maarten—so depending on where you’re staying, you’ll see the name spelled differently.

Below is a quick overview of the island’s top areas to help you get started. Then, I’ll dive into each one in detail later in this guide so you can see which part of Saint Martin feels like the best fit for you.

• Simpson Bay – This is one of the island’s liveliest areas, and we think its long sandy beach, buzzing restaurants, and marina full of boat tours make it a great pick for first-time visitors. Mary’s Boon Beach Resort & Spa offers a character-filled beachfront stay.

• Maho – Maho is famous for planes soaring overhead at Maho Beach, and you’ll also find casinos and clubs that keep the party going until dawn! Royal Islander Club Resort La Plage is our top pick in this area.

• Dawn Beach – This family-friendly stretch of the east coast boasts clear waters and snorkeling right offshore. We love Oyster Bay Beach Resort!

• Philipsburg – The Dutch capital is busy by day but calm by night, with duty-free shopping, historic sites, and a lively boardwalk. Horizon View Beach Hotel offers a comfy beachfront stay.

• Orient Bay – Nicknamed the “St-Tropez of the Caribbean,” this social and stylish bay is all about bars, beach clubs, and water sports. Hotel La Plantation is an uber-elegant place to stay.

• Grand Case – This French village is the island’s foodie capital, and it’s home to world-class restaurants along the famous “Restaurant Row.” Love Boutique Hotel offers an immaculate beachfront stay.

• Marigot / Sandy Ground – The French capital is culturally rich and a great place to witness Saint Martin’s local life. There are fewer hotels here, but Hommage Hotel & Residences is a fantastic beachfront resort.

Where to Stay in Saint Martin

Simpson Bay

Simpson Bay is one of the liveliest areas in St Maarten, and I’d say it’s the perfect base if it’s your first time on the island. This stretch along the Dutch side is best known for its long sandy beach, a buzzing dining scene, and easy access to just about everything.

The main strip is lined with bars, restaurants, and casinos, so there’s always something happening, while the marina is packed with boat tours that can take you island-hopping or out for a sunset sail.

What I love about Simpson Bay is the mix of energy and convenience. You’re close to Princess Juliana International Airport, which makes arrivals and departures easy, but the area is more than just a stopover. Spend your days lounging on the beach, try your luck at a casino, or take a quick drive to explore nearby Maho Beach to watch planes land just overhead.

It’s a versatile spot that works for couples, families, and groups of friends who want plenty of options for both day and night. Just know that the area can get busy, especially around the main nightlife district, but that’s part of what gives it so much personality.

Pros

• Central location with plenty of restaurants, nightlife, and tours
• Long beach and marina right on your doorstep

Cons

• Can feel crowded during peak season
• Nightlife can get noisy near the main strip

The Morgan Resort Spa & Village – $$$

The Morgan Resort Spa & Village is a beautifully sleek and modern property right by the airport and Maho Beach. We love this hotel because it feels like a mini oasis, with its infinity-edge pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea, complete with cabanas and a swim-up bar.

If you want to spend your days lounging poolside, then walk to nearby restaurants and nightlife in the evening, you will LOVE this hotel. The rooms are spacious and stylish, with ocean or garden views, and the resort offers a spa, fitness center, and a popular on-site restaurant.

It’s especially convenient if you want a luxury stay with quick access to Maho’s action and Simpson Bay’s restaurants just a short drive away. Rooms and suites here cost between $300 and $1,000 USD.

See price ranges and reserve this sleek stay here!

Mary’s Boon Beach Resort & Spa – $$

Mary’s Boon Beach Resort & Spa is a long-standing favorite in Simpson Bay. It has a much more old-school boutique feel than the Morgan, and it sits directly on the beach, so you can roll out of bed and onto the sand! Personally, I think that’s the biggest draw here, but I also like the relaxed and homey atmosphere.

We love the friendly staff and the quiet charm of this place. You’re only a few minutes from the busy nightlife of Simpson Bay but far enough away to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. It’s a great mid-range option for couples, families, or anyone wanting beachfront access without the resort crowds. Rooms here cost between $150 and $300 USD per night, depending on your dates and room category.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Commodore Suites – $$

Commodore Suites offers modern apartment-style accommodations right in the heart of Simpson Bay. Each suite comes with a kitchen or kitchenette, making it a practical choice for longer stays or travelers who like having the option to self-cater.

The rooftop pool and terrace are standout features, especially since there’s a hot tub on the terrace! The hotel’s location also puts you within walking distance of supermarkets, shops, and plenty of restaurants, so you’ll have everything you need close at hand.

It’s not directly on the beach, but it makes up for that with convenience and space. Rooms here generally cost between $150 and $370 USD per night.

Browse room options and book this apartment-style stay here!

Maho

Maho is St Maarten’s party capital and one of the most iconic places to stay on the island. It’s best known for Maho Beach, where planes fly just overhead as they land at Princess Juliana International Airport. This is a bucket-list experience for many travelers visiting Saint Martin, and a real perk of staying here! 

Beyond the beach, Maho is alive with casinos, nightclubs, and bars that stay open until the early hours. It’s truly the place to be if you’re chasing nightlife and energy. For that reason, I’d highly recommend Maho to anyone on a party trip to St Martin! 

What makes Maho fun is the sheer variety of things to do within walking distance. You can spend the day lounging on Maho or nearby Mullet Bay Beach, try your luck at Casino Royale, or grab dinner at one of the lively restaurants before hitting the dance floor. For a change of pace, Mullet Bay Golf Course is also nearby.

It’s not the quietest part of the island, but if you thrive on buzz and entertainment, Maho is hard to beat. We’ve had a lot of fun here, and Maho Beach is absolutely incredible—although it’s not the most relaxing beach! 

Pros

• Lively nightlife with casinos, bars, and clubs
• Iconic Maho Beach plane-spotting experience

Cons

• Can be noisy, especially at night
• Not ideal for travelers seeking peace and quiet

Mullet Bay Suites – $$$

Mullet Bay Suites offers a stylish and comfortable stay just a short stroll from one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. The spacious studios and suites come with modern furnishings, full kitchens, and private balconies. We think it’s perfect if you like the flexibility of having your own space while still enjoying resort-style perks, like a free breakfast!

The property features a pool area surrounded by tropical gardens, making it easy to relax after a day at the beach. You’ll also be close to Mullet Bay Golf Course, a short drive from Maho’s nightlife, and less than a mile from Maho Beach. Rooms cost between $250 and $650 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve this stylish stay here!

Royal Islander Club Resort La Plage – $$

Royal Islander Club Resort La Plage sits right on Maho Beach, so you’ll be in the heart of the action with front-row seats to the famous plane landings! And when you’re not watching planes fly in, you can enjoy the bright, airy suites and huge pool. 

And as if direct beach access weren’t enough, the location means casinos, clubs, and shops are just steps away. It’s a lively, social place to stay, but the resort also provides plenty of comfort when you want to retreat and relax. In short, it’s our favorite place to stay in Maho Beach! Studios and suites cost between $160 and $400 USD per night.

Find the best prices on Booking.com!

Sapphire Beach Club Resort – $

Perched near the cliffs overlooking Cupecoy Beach, Sapphire Beach Club Resort offers stunning sea views and a quieter alternative to staying directly in Maho. The rooms and suites are spacious, with private balconies or patios, and many feature hot tubs or small pools.

The resort has a large pool, a restaurant, and easy access to both Maho’s nightlife and the calmer Cupecoy area. It’s not as polished as some of the newer resorts, but its location and roomy accommodations make it a solid choice. Rooms range between $100 and $400 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Dawn Beach

Dawn Beach is a quiet escape on the east coast of the island. It’s a much more peaceful alternative to busy areas like Maho Beach and Simpson Bay! 

True to its name, Dawn Beach is one of the best spots on the island to catch a sunrise. It’s also ideal for snorkeling thanks to its clear waters and offshore reefs! So if you’re looking for a gorgeous beach escape away from the crowds and nightlife, Dawn Beach is the clear choice.

The area sits close to the French border, which makes it easy to explore both sides of the island. You’ll find Oyster Pond nearby, a pretty marina with boat charters and local restaurants, while Orient Bay is just a short drive north if you find yourself craving a livelier beach scene one day. 

Dining and shopping are more limited in Dawn Beach itself, so it’s not for everyone, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a secluded escape. We like the way this area feels tucked away while still being accessible. Just keep in mind you’ll need a car if you plan on exploring further afield!

Pros

• Calm and peaceful setting, great for families and couples
• Excellent snorkeling and sunrise views

Cons

• Limited dining and shopping nearby
• You’ll need a rental car to explore other parts of the island

Princess Heights Luxury Condo Hotel – $$$

Princess Heights is a boutique-style condo hotel perched on a hillside overlooking Dawn Beach. The views are spectacular, and the suites come with full kitchens, spacious living areas, and private balconies. The property feels private and low-key, with a pool and fitness room available for guests.

What makes this spot special is the flexibility it offers: you get the space and convenience of an apartment with the comfort of hotel services. It’s close enough to walk down to the beach, but set back far enough to feel peaceful and secluded.

A fantastic choice if you want a home-like base with upscale touches. Studios and apartments cost between $300 and $800 USD per night.

Book your stay at Princess Heights Luxury Condo Hotel here!

Oyster Bay Beach Resort – $$

Set on a peninsula between Dawn Beach and Oyster Pond, Oyster Bay Beach Resort is a glossy resort with a friendly atmosphere. There are suites ranging from cozy rooms and studios to larger condos with kitchens, so it’s a versatile option for different travelers.

The resort has a large infinity pool right on the water’s edge, along with a spa, several restaurants, and easy beach access. We love the relaxed vibe and the sense of community here, as well as the location that makes it easy to explore both Dutch and French Saint Martin.

It’s an excellent mid-range pick for couples or families who want comfort without the luxury price tag. Rooms and units range between $200 and $700 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch side of the island and a main shopping and cruise hub. It’s an excellent choice if you enjoy history, culture, and easy access to the beach all in one place! 

The town sits along Great Bay Beach. It’s home to a lively boardwalk that’s lined with restaurants, cafés, and duty-free shops. When we stayed in Philipsburg, we spent the morning browsing jewelry stores and boutiques, then strolled straight onto the sand for a swim in the afternoon!

Meanwhile, the historic Front Street is filled with colorful colonial-style buildings, which give the town plenty of character. There’s plenty of local history around here, from Fort Amsterdam and the Sint Maarten Museum, and there are lots of waterfront seafood restaurants to dine at.

Philipsburg is a popular place for cruise ships to dock, so it gets pretty busy during the day. It’s much quieter in the evenings once the boats have left, so it’s still more of a relaxed base compared to Simpson Bay or Maho. It’s ideal for travelers who like shopping, culture, and sightseeing but don’t mind that nightlife is limited.

Pros

• Great mix of shopping, history, and beach access
• Central location for exploring both sides of the island

Cons

• Very busy when cruise ships are in port
• Limited nightlife once evening comes

Holland House Beach Hotel – $$$

Holland House Beach Hotel is a stylish beachfront hotel that puts you right in the heart of Philipsburg. Its prime location on the boardwalk means you’ll step straight onto Great Bay Beach while still being within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

The rooms are modern and elegant, many with balconies overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The on-site Ocean Lounge restaurant and bar is one of our favorite spots to dine in this area, as it offers fresh seafood and cocktails with ocean views.

It’s a polished yet relaxed choice that’s perfect for anyone who wants to combine shopping, dining, and beach time in one convenient spot. Rooms here cost between $180 and $900 USD per night, depending on the dates and level of luxury you choose.

Check availability and book this beachfront stay here!

Horizon View Beach Hotel – $$

Horizon View Beach Hotel is a comfy aparthotel that sits directly on Great Bay Beach. The suites and apartments come with full kitchens, so it’s a great choice if you’re planning on self-catering. 

We also love the central location. You can walk to all the shops along Front Street, grab a bite on the boardwalk, or simply relax on the beach right outside your door. It’s not as upscale as some of the luxury resorts, but it delivers plenty of comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.  Suites and apartments typically cost between $200 and $450 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Alicia’s Inn – $

Alicia’s Inn is a small, budget-friendly hotel tucked just off Front Street. The rooms are simple and a little dated, sure, but they’re clean, well-maintained, and air-conditioned. They offer great value for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring. Meanwhile, the friendly staff give the place a welcoming, homey atmosphere, which makes it stand out from larger hotels.

While you won’t get resort-style amenities, you will be just steps from Philipsburg’s shops, cafés, and beaches. It’s a fantastic pick for solo travelers or couples on a budget who want a central, practical base in the capital.

Rooms usually cost between $100 and $250 USD per night, depending on your dates and room size.

Find the best prices on Booking.com!

Related Read: Looking for more inspiration? Don’t miss our blog on the best things to do in Philipsburg here, packed with tips for exploring the capital of St. Maarten.

Orient Bay

Orient Bay is often called the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean,” and it’s easy to see why! This long white stretch of sand on the French side is one of the island’s most famous beaches. But not only does it boast scenic beauty, its lively atmosphere and upscale beach clubs and restaurants feel very St. Tropez! 

The beach is lined with loungers, water sports rentals, and open-air eateries where you can sip drinks with your toes in the sand. Oh, and it’s heaven for watersports fans! Kiteboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing are very popular here, so you can spend your days riding the waves and catching the wind while enjoying stunning ocean views. 

In true French style, parts of Orient Bay are clothing-optional. This has been part of its character since the 1970s, though most of the beach is family-friendly.

Staying in Orient Bay puts you close to other French-side highlights, like the culinary haven of Grand Case and the peaceful beach at Anse Marcel. It’s a great choice for couples, families, and groups who want an energetic beach base with a glamorous European flair.

It’s a very upscale area, though, so all the accommodation options around here are high-end and there aren’t really any decent budget-friendly stays.

Pros

• Famous and beautiful beach 
• Lots of upscale restaurants and beach clubs
• Close to Grand Case and other French-side attractions

Cons

• Can feel busy, especially during peak season
• Higher prices compared to quieter parts of the island

Hotel La Plantation – $$$

Hotel La Plantation is a charming boutique resort set on a lush hillside overlooking Orient Bay. The spacious suites and villas come with kitchenettes, terraces, and colorful Caribbean décor, giving them a laid-back yet stylish vibe.

The hotel offers direct access to several beach clubs, where guests can use sun loungers and enjoy discounts on food and drinks. It’s ideal if you want the privacy of a villa-style stay while still having the comforts of a resort.

With its friendly service, beautiful setting, and proximity to Orient Beach, La Plantation makes a dreamy base for a Saint Martin’s vacation! Rooms and suites tend to range between $250 and $650 USD per night, which includes an American-style breakfast!

Book your stay at Hotel La Plantaion here!

Orient Bay Palm Court Residence – $$$

Orient Bay Palm Court Residence is a small, welcoming hotel just a short walk from Orient Beach. The tropical-chic decor feels colorful and breezy! The suites are bright and welcoming, with red and orange decor that feels fun, but not too much. They also come with kitchenettes, too, which definitely come in handy. 

The staff are so warm and friendly, which really adds to the boutique charm of this place. It has all of the resort-style amenities you need for a comfortable stay, but with more character and charm than you might expect. Plus, it’s a great pick if you want to stay near all the action of Orient Bay! Rooms here usually cost between $250 and $700 USD per night.

Check availability and secure your stay here!

Esmeralda Resort – $$$

Esmeralda Resort offers a beautiful, tropical stay. It’s a private and spacious resort right on the gorgeous white sand, surrounded by brightly colored flowers and plenty of greenery. The property is made up of colonial-style villas, each with its own pool shared between just a few rooms, which gives it a more exclusive feel.

The rooms and suites are large, with kitchenettes and terraces, which makes it easy to settle in for a longer vacation. The resort also has direct access to Orient Beach and its popular clubs, where guests enjoy complimentary sunbeds—a pretty nice perk if you ask me!

With its quiet atmosphere, large accommodations, and resort services, Esmeralda offers a fantastic balance of privacy and convenience right by one of the island’s most iconic beaches. In short, it’s paradise! Rooms and suites generally range between $275 and $2,350 USD per night, which includes breakfast and parking.

Book this tropical stay at Esmeralda Resort here!

Grand Case

Grand Case is the culinary heart of Saint Martin and one of the most charming areas to stay on the island. This small town on the French side is packed with world-class restaurants, from upscale fine dining to casual lolos (open-air barbecue spots) serving Creole specialties.

If you like to get to know a new destination through its food, then there’s literally no better place to base yourself than Grand Case, trust me!  Beyond its stellar reputation for dining, Grand Case has a relaxed village feel with colorful Caribbean houses, boutique shops, and a gorgeous beach that stretches along the town’s waterfront.

The sunsets here are some of the most spectacular on the island, and we think they’re best enjoyed with a drink in hand at a beachfront bar. Scratch that, we know it! 

Staying in Grand Case also puts you close to Anse Marcel and Orient Bay, making it easy to explore other northern beaches. It’s an excellent choice for couples looking for romance, travelers who enjoy walking to restaurants and nightlife, and anyone wanting to experience the island’s French-Caribbean culture up close.

Pros

• Incredible dining scene with a mix of gourmet and casual options
• Beautiful beach with stunning sunsets
  

Cons

• Limited large resorts and amenities compared to other areas
• Can feel quiet outside of dining hours

Bleu Emeraude Hotel – $$$

Bleu Emeraude Hotel is a gorgeous beachfront hotel in Grand Case. It offers airy, minimalist studios and apartments with sweeping ocean views, as well as full kitchens and washing machines. That may not be a super exciting detail, but it sure does come in handy!

And this property has plenty of glamor to speak of. There’s direct beach access, a complimentary French breakfast each morning, and the rooms have private sea-facing balconies with sunbeds. Bliss! 

The hotel’s location means you’re within easy walking distance of Grand Case’s famous restaurants. It delivers luxury in a smaller, more intimate setting. Rates start at $200 USD per night and go up to $1,500 USD depending on the dates and level of luxury you choose.

See all room options and secure your stay here!

Love Boutique Hotel – $$

Love Boutique Hotel is a laid-back, beachfront property with a bohemian vibe. The rooms are colorful and cozy, and many open directly onto the sand, so you can wake up just steps from the sea. The on-site bar is a popular spot for sunset drinks, creating a friendly, social atmosphere without being over the top.

Its central location in Grand Case makes it easy to walk to the town’s top dining spots, while still offering a peaceful retreat when you return. With its casual charm and beachfront setting, Love Boutique Hotel is perfect for couples or friends looking for a relaxed stay in the heart of Grand Case. Rooms and suites cost between $180 and $500 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Once you’ve picked your base, check out our 3-day Saint Martin itinerary here to see exactly how we recommend spending your time on the island.

Marigot / Sandy Ground

Marigot is the capital of the French side of Saint Martin. It’s home to lots of colorful colonial buildings and cobbled streets, which give it a charming, European vibe. However, it’s pretty quiet compared to the busier Dutch side, and we really appreciated the contrast when we stayed here. 

Meanwhile, Sandy Ground is just a short drive away. This is a quiet beach atmosphere with a small selection of local eateries and bars. It feels more authentic and local, and we love how empty the beaches are! 

Marigot is home to lots of markets, which are full of fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted souvenirs. It’s perfect for sampling local cuisine and soaking up French-Caribbean culture! Then, you can hop over to Sandy Ground for peaceful beach walks, snorkeling, and epic sunsets.

All in all, staying in this area offers a slower pace and a taste of authentic island life. It’s especially suited for those who prefer cultural exploration over nightlife. While hotel choices are more limited than in Maho or Simpson Bay, the charming streets, markets, and local dining make it a very rewarding base for those who want to see the real Saint Martin.

Pros

• Authentic French-Caribbean atmosphere with markets and colonial architecture
• Peaceful beaches and excellent sunset views

Cons

• Fewer hotel and resort options
• Limited nightlife and dining compared to busier areas

Hommage Hotel & Residences – $$

Hommage Hotel & Residences is a stylish option in Marigot, offering modern apartments and suites with full kitchens and spacious living areas. The property combines the comfort of a hotel with the independence of a residence, so you get the best of both worlds!

We love how central the location is. Staying here means you can walk to Marigot’s best markets, restaurants, and cafés whenever you manage to tear yourself away from the pretty pool and sun terrace. All in all, this place offers a quiet and comfortable stay with tons of French-Caribbean charm right on your doorstep. Suites here cost between $185 and $300 USD per night.

Check availability and book this stay here!

Fantastic Hotel – $

Fantastic Hotel is a budget-friendly choice in Sandy Ground, offering simple, clean rooms with air conditioning and friendly service. While the accommodations are fairly basic, the hotel’s location is convenient for exploring the town and the nearby beach.

The relaxed vibe and helpful staff make it a popular pick for those who want a practical base without breaking the bank. It’s especially appealing for those prioritizing location and affordability over luxury amenities. There’s an outdoor pool, and some rooms have kitchenettes for guests to use. Rooms cost between $125 and $185 USD per night.

See all the room categories and reserve your stay here!

Top Activities to do in Saint Martin

With your Saint Martin stay sorted, it’s time to get out and experience everything this island has to offer—and believe us, there’s no shortage of adventures. From snorkeling with sea turtles to sailing in style and even captaining your own boat, we found so many unique ways to explore beyond the beaches. Here are a few of our favorite tours that gave us a deeper, more memorable look at Saint Martin.

• See the island in a day – With stops at lookouts, beaches, markets, and even a rum distillery, this sightseeing tour gave us the perfect overview of Saint Martin. We loved how this well-balanced tour mixed history, local flavor, and plenty of fun.

• Snorkel and speedboat around Saint Martin – Sea turtles, stingrays, coral reefs, and hidden beaches made this speedboat and snorkeling tour unforgettable. What really stood out was how this adventurous tour covered so much of the island in just one day.

• Ride ATVs across the island – From Maho Beach’s low-flying planes to Marigot’s colorful streets, this ATV tour blended adventure with sightseeing. We loved how this guided tour was thrilling yet still beginner-friendly, with off-road stretches and plenty of beach stops.

• Sail in style on a catamaran – Snorkeling over a sunken helicopter, paddling SUP boards at Mullet Bay, and sipping drinks as we cruised past Maho Beach made this sailing catamaran tour feel like pure luxury. This relaxing tour pampered us from start to finish.

• Captain your own mini-speed boat – Steering our own boat past mega yachts and secluded beaches made this mini-speed boat tour the most thrilling adventure of our trip. We especially loved stopping to snorkel at Creole Rock and discovering hidden gems like Happy Bay.

Related Read: Want even more ideas? Check out our detailed guide to the best things to do in Saint Martin for the full list of experiences.

Renting a Car in the Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!

We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean

• Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
• Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
• Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
• Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
• Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
• An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

After days spent beach-hopping, snorkeling, and maybe watching one too many planes roar overhead at Maho, having the right place to stay makes all the difference. Whether you’re drawn to the energy of Simpson Bay, the romance of Grand Case, or the calm of Dawn Beach, Saint Martin rewards every kind of traveler. We hope this guide helps you plan a trip that’s as exciting, relaxing, and memorable as ours have been.

If you’re still piecing together your itinerary? Be sure to check out all our Caribbean blogs here for more tips, hotel recs, and fun things to do. And for even more inspiration, here are some of our most popular travel blogs you won’t want to miss:

10 Best Things to do in Curacao

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Turks and Caicos: The Best 5-Day Itinerary

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in the Dominican Republic: The Best 5-Day Itinerary